Final answer:
The MMPI-2 is a widely used personality inventory with variable clinical cut-off scores for its scales. These cut-off scores help identify potential psychological issues, and the test is used in both clinical diagnosis and occupational screening. Interpretation of MMPI-2 scores is complex and should be handled by qualified professionals.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) is a widely used personality inventory that helps establish a clinical profile based on an individual's responses to 567 true/false questions. This inventory is designed to assess various psychological conditions and is used not only in clinical settings but also for occupational screening and counseling purposes. It typically includes a clinical cut-off that determines the threshold at which a score on any of the scales indicates a potential problem that may need further professional attention.
The clinical cut-off for MMPI-2 is not a single score but varies depending on the specific scale being evaluated. For example, a T-score above 65 on any of the clinical scales might be considered indicative of a potential issue. However, it is essential to interpret these scores within the context of the individual's broader psychological profile and life circumstances. Therefore, the MMPI-2 is administered and interpreted by qualified professionals who can understand the nuances of the inventory's results.
Reliability scales within the test ensure that results are consistent over time. Organizations often use cutoff scores for job selection processes, such as with law enforcement, to determine whether an applicant should advance to the next selection stage. The use of such scores must be balanced with considerations of the applicant's overall suitability and the specific demands of the position.